Talented defender Ogunnaike scores on UYL debut but Arsenal lose to Olympiacos

Nigerian-eligible defender Josh Ogunnaike scored on his debut for Arsenal U19s in the UEFA Youth League, but his strike was not enough to prevent a 2-1 defeat to Olympiacos on Wednesday afternoon at Meadow Park. 

Ogunnaike found the net in the 83rd minute, converting a precise pass from Bailey-Joseph.

Arsenal started the game positively, creating early chances, but their momentum was disrupted when Louie Copley was shown a straight red card following a challenge on Olympiacos’ Argyrios Liatsikouras, leaving the team with ten men for the majority of the match. 

Olympiacos capitalised on the numerical advantage, taking the lead in the 20th minute through Ethan Cortes and doubling their advantage in the 37th minute when Christos Filis reacted quickest to a rebound after Jack Porter’s initial save.

Despite being a player down, Arsenal maintained possession in the second half, with Ogunnaike contributing to attacking plays and helping the team create several opportunities. 

His goal gave Arsenal hope, but a late chance to equalise was denied by Olympiacos goalkeeper Kampagiovanis, ensuring the visitors held on for the win.

Ogunnaike is in the second year of his scholarship at Arsenal and is now eligible to sign a professional contract, having turned 17 in April.

Although the promising left-back has been invited to train with Arsenal's first team, he has yet to be named in an official matchday squad. 

Wale Adejumo

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